KENYA – The Kenyan government is exploring advanced semen sexing technology to increase milk production in the country, according to Livestock Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke.
Reported by the State Department for Livestock, the initiative aims to boost the probability of dairy cows giving birth to heifers by over 90 percent, ensuring sustained growth in the dairy herd.
Mueke noted that discussions are underway with ABS Global, an American breeding company specializing in bovine genetics, to establish a partnership that would make sexed semen more accessible and affordable for Kenyan farmers.
A report by the department indicated that the use of this technology is expected to enhance dairy productivity by increasing the number of female calves, which are essential for milk production.
Sexed semen technology involves processing semen in a laboratory to remove a significant percentage of Y chromosomes, which are responsible for male offspring.
According to ABS Global, the process uses laser technology to sort sperm cells based on chromosome type, thereby increasing the likelihood of producing heifer calves.
The procedure is carried out by identifying chromosome differences through size or DNA content, allowing technicians to separate X-bearing sperm from Y-bearing sperm with high accuracy.
ABS Global highlights that the technology does not entirely eliminate Y chromosomes but significantly reduces their presence in semen batches.
As a result, conception rates with sexed semen remain high, with reports indicating a 90 percent probability of cows delivering female offspring.
A report by the company explains that the fertility of processed semen remains a key consideration, though farmers are encouraged to use the technology on cows and heifers with superior genetics for optimal results.
In addition, Mueke noted that the objective is to make the technology available at a highly subsidized cost, allowing more farmers to benefit from improved herd composition.
According to experts, increasing the proportion of heifers in dairy herds directly impacts milk production capacity, ensuring greater yields over time.
A report by industry stakeholders highlights that the adoption of sexed semen technology has been instrumental in dairy development programs in other regions, where increased heifer births have contributed to overall sector growth.
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